Western State University College of Law Campuses

Western State University College of Law, located in Fullerton, California, offers a comprehensive Juris Doctor (JD) program designed to equip students with the foundational knowledge and practical skills necessary for a successful legal career. The curriculum emphasizes both doctrinal and experiential learning, preparing graduates for the California Bar Exam and diverse legal practice areas.

The core first-year curriculum includes foundational courses such as Contracts, Torts, Civil Procedure, Criminal Law, Property, Constitutional Law, and Legal Writing and Research. These courses provide students with a solid understanding of legal principles and analytical skills. Contracts explores the formation, performance, and breach of agreements, while Torts covers intentional, negligence, and strict liability claims. Civil Procedure delves into the rules governing litigation, and Criminal Law examines elements of crimes and defenses.

• Property Law: Focuses on real and personal property rights, estates, and land use.
• Constitutional Law: Analyzes the U.S. Constitution, separation of powers, and individual rights.
• Legal Writing and Research: Teaches effective advocacy through memos, briefs, and oral arguments.

In the second and third years, students pursue upper-division courses tailored to their interests. Business Law offerings include Business Associations, Secured Transactions, and Taxation, providing insights into corporate governance and commercial dealings. Litigation-focused classes such as Evidence, Trial Advocacy, and Remedies build courtroom proficiency. Family Law covers marriage, divorce, child custody, and support obligations, while Wills and Trusts addresses estate planning and probate.

• Evidence: Rules for admissibility and hearsay exceptions in trials.
• Trial Advocacy: Practical skills in jury selection, opening statements, and cross-examination.
• Family Law: Domestic relations, adoption, and alternative dispute resolution.
• Administrative Law: Government agency procedures and judicial review.
• International Law: Treaties, human rights, and global trade regulations.

Elective courses allow specialization in areas like Intellectual Property, Environmental Law, Immigration Law, and Health Law. Intellectual Property protects patents, trademarks, and copyrights in the digital age. Environmental Law addresses pollution control, climate change, and natural resources. The program also integrates clinical opportunities, such as externships with local courts and clinics focusing on public interest law, elder law, and criminal defense. These hands-on experiences enhance resume-building and ethical decision-making.

Additionally, the curriculum incorporates professional responsibility courses to instill ethical standards under the ABA Model Rules. Seminars on topics like Cybersecurity Law and Biotechnology Law keep pace with emerging legal challenges. With small class sizes and dedicated faculty, the Fullerton campus fosters a collaborative environment. Graduates benefit from a 300-word curriculum overview that underscores rigorous academics, bar preparation support, and career services, ensuring readiness for private practice, public service, or judicial roles. This holistic approach totals over 88 units, blending theory with practice for real-world impact.